20 MARCH 2018

Liam Smith: 'I’m Going In There To Stop Canelo'

Liverpool’s WBO junior middleweight Champion Liam Smith came face-to-face with Mexican challenger Saul ’Canelo’ Alvarez for a second time at today’s final stop on the Canelo vs. Smith international press tour. ’Beefy’ puts it all on the line against pound-for-pound superstar Alvarez at the breath-taking AT&T Stadium on Saturday 17th September.

The undefeated Merseyside hero is looking to make a name for himself across the pond when he defends his WBO World Title for a third time at the home of the world-famous Dallas Cowboys on Mexican Independence Day.

"This is a fight I’ve been asking for for 12 months. I jumped at the chance, it’s a chance for me to make a name for myself.

"I want to do it against the biggest name in boxing at the moment. Saul Alvarez is the biggest name in boxing. I’m looking forward to pitting my wits against one of the best in the sport," said the 23-0 star, currently on an eight fight KO streak

"I think a lot of people, will be surprised. I can’t wait until September and making a name for myself up there."

Responding to the US media reaction which has seen him unfairly labelled as a "paper champion", the 27-year-old said the American press weren’t in a position to comment as he’s never fought Stateside before.

"They’ll know in September that they shouldn’t be calling me a paper champion. I haven’t fought out there just yet, but they’ll know why [it’s wrong to call me a paper champion] when I do.

"I’m going in there to stop Canelo. If I don’t stop him, it won’t be for the lack of trying."

Alvarez, 47-1-1 33 KO’s, insisted he will not be underestimating Smith, despite heading into September’s mega-fight as the bookies clear favourite.

"What can I say? Liam Smith is a great champion. He’s very strong and he’s very hungry.

"We’re going to prepare like never before, knowing what we know about Liam Smith. I can assure you this: we’re going to give the fans what they want to see."